What to do if you have a herniated disk with numbness

When a lumbar disc herniation occurs, the herniated nucleus pulposus will protrude to the back and side, compressing the nerve roots of the corresponding segments, which will lead to radiating pain and numbness in the lower limbs unilaterally or bilaterally. After the symptoms of numbness or radiating pain appear, you should go to the hospital to see a spine surgeon for diagnosis and treatment, and if necessary, undergo CT and MRI to make a clear diagnosis. Treatment usually includes traction, local massage, physical therapy, acupuncture, and oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs and medications to reduce swelling. When treatments are ineffective and symptoms are more pronounced, minimally invasive removal of the nucleus pulposus of the herniated lumbar disc may be considered. If the lumbar disc herniation is combined with lumbar instability, there is a possibility that the herniated nucleus pulposus may have to be removed, as well as internal fixation of the posterior lumbar spine.